West Gate Lodge has again been awarded the prestigious Cornerstone Lodge designation for 2013-2015.The purpose of the Cornerstone Project is to encourage and recognize lodges that plan, implement and manage a well-rounded yearly lodge program that promotes lodge activities, brotherhood, charitable work and involvement in the community.

Although good planning and strong management is an important component for the overall success of our lodge, it must never be forgotten that in order to maintain the momentum in our lodge the members must have a compelling idea of where the lodge needs to go, what type of members it will attract, what benefits it can provide and how the organization needs to be perceived in the community if it is to thrive.Value Added Benefits of the Cornerstone Project

When West Gate Lodge first made the decision to participate in this program we acknowledge our desire to increase the value of the Masonic experience provided to our members. Our continuing participation reaffirms our commitment. The benefits of the program are many and include;

Improved lodge vitality

Enhanced teamwork

Increased pride in the lodge

Greater sense of accomplishment

The use of the designation of “Cornerstone Lodge 2010 - 2015” on the Lodge Summons, Newsletter, Letterhead or other such lodge material.

West Gate Lodge is proud to be recognized as a Cornerstone Lodge for the hard work and commitment of our members to Freemasonry making West Gate such a dynamic and respected Lodge.

West Gate had a fantastic week at the Annual Grand Lodge Communication.

Along with two members elected to prominant positions many West Gate members could be found throughout the Royal York with our distinctive shirts emphasing our presence.

The events included educational seminars, Tuesday's social events, the Grand Master's Banquet and the Grand Lodge Installation and Investiture Ceremony. I hope everyone had a very enjoyable time and even more brethren will be able to join us next year.

At the annual meeting of Toronto West District, during the Annual Grand Lodge Communication, R.W. Bro. Warner was elected District Deputy Grand Master for 2013-2014. Congratulations on your election and confirmation. It is well deserved after serving the the members of Toronto West District, Grand Lodge and the College of Freemasonry.We look forward to you having a successful year. West Gate Lodge is behind you 100%.

On Sunday, August 18, 2013 at 1:30 PM, at the St. Johns Cemetery, Simcoe Ontario, a Historical Plaque will be placed at the gravesite of our first Grand Master. Dignitaries from the Ontario Government, city and local officials along with community leaders will be attending. Congratulations to all committee members of the committee who made this recognition possible.

It is interesting to note, on June 16th, 1922, more than one thousand Masons assembled at St. Johns Cemetery for the unveiling of William Mercer Wilson’s granite monument, above his last resting place. On August 18th, 2013, plan on attending and be part of Masonic history. All Mason, including their family and friends are invited to attend this historical event.

William Mercer Wilson"One of the most prominent Canadian figures of his time. Attained great eminence in political, military, municipal, legal and Masonic circles. Born in Scotland in 1813. Came to Canada in 1832. Was appointed a commissioner to hold courts of justice in the Talbot District in 1834. Took a leading part in quelling the Rebellion of 1837-8, being cavalry commander at Simcoe with the rank of captain. In 1840 was appointed public notary and registrar of the Surrogate Court. The same year he was admitted as a Mason at St. John's and in 1842 became Master of the Lodge, a post he held at intervals for ten years. Five years later was enrolled as a Royal Arch. Mason, and in 1857 was entered in the Supreme Grand Chapter of Masons. In 1873 was elected first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada. Received the degree of barrister-at-law from the Law Society of Upper Canada in 1852. Later was appointed County Crown Attorney for Norfolk and finally County Judge in 1868, succeeding William Salmon. Was active in municipal affairs, being councillor and reeve in Simcoe town council, and Warden of Norfolk. Retired from militia in 1869 with rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. Died during his eleventh year as Grand Master, 16th January, 1875, in his 62nd year."

Grand Lodge 158th Annual Communication will take place Monday, July 15 to Thursday, July 18, 1013.MONDAY, JULY 15thThe Board of General Purposes will meet in the Ballroom, on he Convention floor of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, at 9:00 AM and 1:30 PM R.W. Bro. Donald A. Campbell Deputy Grand Master and President of the Board, will preside. TUESDAY, JULY 16thThe Board of General Purposes will meet at 10:00 AM in the ballroom,Fairmont Royal York Hotel.EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS from 1:30 PM to 4:20 PM in BC, Quebec and Alberta Rooms.MEET THE NOMINEES - 7:00 pm to 8:30 PM in Salon A on the Convention Floor.DELEGATE REGISTRATION - The Credentials Committee will register delegates in the Concert Hall, Fairmont Royal York Hotel, on Tuesday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. NOTE: Members will receive their ballot on registration in the Concert Hall, Convention Floor. WEST GATE HOSPITALITY - Our Lodge will be gathering for a special event Tuesday evening. Contact a Lodge officer for more information.WEDNESDAY, JULY 17thGrand Lodge will assemble in the Canadian Room, Fairmont Royal York Hotel, at 8:45 AM; M.W. Bro. D. Garry Dowling presiding. Brethren are earnestly requested to bring their own aprons and to be in their seats in Grand Lodge before 8:30 AM on Wednesday. Distinguished visitors, representing other Grand Jurisdictions, will be received and welcomed. Dress: Business Suit.An Address of Welcome will be tendered and Grand Lodge will then proceed with business until 11:30 AM. The brethren are asked to reassemble after lunch in the same place at 1:30 PM.DELEGATE REGISTRATION - The Credentials Committee will register delegates in the Concert Hall, Fairmont Royal York Hotel, on Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. NOTE: Members will receive their ballot on registration in the Concert Hall, Convention Floor. REGISTRATION OF VOTING DELEGATES CLOSES WEDNESDAY, JULY 17th, at 3:00 PM SHARP.TORONTO WEST DISTRICT MEETING AND VOTING FOR THE OFFICE OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTER WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 4:00 TO 4:50 PM IN THE CONCERT HALL ON THE CONVENTION FLOOR.GRAND MASTER'S BANQUET - Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at 6:30 PM in the CANADIAN ROOM, Fairmont ROYAL YORK HOTEL. W. Bro. Andrew Hammer, Masonic Author & Lecturer will be the Guest Speaker. Doors open at 6 PM.Dress: Business Suit

THURSDAY, JULY 18thGrand Lodge will reassemble at 8:45 AM in the Canadian Room, FairmontRoyal York Hotel. The installation and investiture of Grand Lodge officers and the newly-elected D.D.G.M.s will take place on Thursday in the Canadian Room, at such time as the Grand Master shall direct.